It’s beginning to feel a lot more normal at the 2021 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo. And the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation is doing its part by welcoming thousands through the turnstiles at its popular Hunter & Outdoor Christmas Expo.
The 2020 Wrangler NFR did not take place in the traditional host city of Las Vegas because of community health restrictions tied to COVID-19. Instead, it opted for a more spread out approach at an open air baseball stadium in Arlington, Texas last December. But now it’s back in Vegas and so are the crowds to visit the booths galore and take part in other activities.
Once again, RMEF is partnering with the Cowboy Channel Cowboy Christmas December 1-11 during the 10 days of the Wrangler NFR. Its expo shares the Las Vegas Convention Center’s South Halls with Cowboy Christmas. Hundreds of exhibitors feature the latest in hunting gear and apparel, firearms, optics, trips, art, western decor and much more.
“Every vendor is returning, plus some, and (we’ve got) a couple of new interactive events,” Steve Decker, RMEF chief revenue officer, told the Las Vegas Review-Journal. “It’s an opportunity for our exhibitors to get down there and do what they do. These are a lot of small businesses, and this expo is a big part of their success. A lot of these small businesses depend on it. It’s a critical source of revenue. It’s a great way for these small businesses to end their year.”
In addition to the expo, RMEF hosts a daily RMEF Calcutta, exclusive daily Cowboy Revival live entertainment and other events.
“It’s just the semblance of getting back to normal. Being away for a year, we’re really pushing the consumer experience. It’ll be everything it has been historically, and more. And for those who have never attended, it’s an experience everyone needs to see,” Decker told the Las Vegas Review-Journal.
(Photo credit: Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation)